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Sivadasan A, Cortel-LeBlanc MA, Cortel-LeBlanc A, Katzberg H. Peripheral nervous system and neuromuscular disorders in the emergency department: A review. Acad Emerg Med 2024; 31:386-397. [PMID: 38419365 DOI: 10.1111/acem.14861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Acute presentations and emergencies in neuromuscular disorders (NMDs) often challenge clinical acumen. The objective of this review is to refine the reader's approach to history taking, clinical localization and early diagnosis, as well as emergency management of neuromuscular emergencies. METHODS An extensive literature search was performed to identify relevant studies. We prioritized meta-analysis, systematic reviews, and position statements where possible to inform any recommendations. SUMMARY The spectrum of clinical presentations and etiologies ranges from neurotoxic envenomation or infection to autoimmune disease such as Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) and myasthenia gravis (MG). Delayed diagnosis is not uncommon when presentations occur "de novo," respiratory failure is dominant or isolated, or in the case of atypical scenarios such as GBS variants, severe autonomic dysfunction, or rhabdomyolysis. Diseases of the central nervous system, systemic and musculoskeletal disorders can mimic presentations in neuromuscular disorders. CONCLUSIONS Fortunately, early diagnosis and management can improve prognosis. This article provides a comprehensive review of acute presentations in neuromuscular disorders relevant for the emergency physician.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajith Sivadasan
- Ellen & Martin Prosserman Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Miguel A Cortel-LeBlanc
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Queensway Carleton Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Institut du Savoir Montfort, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- 360 Concussion Care, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Achelle Cortel-LeBlanc
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Institut du Savoir Montfort, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- 360 Concussion Care, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Queensway Carleton Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hans Katzberg
- Ellen & Martin Prosserman Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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De León AM, Garcia-Santibanez R, Harrison TB. Article Topic: Neuropathies Due to Infections and Antimicrobial Treatments. Curr Treat Options Neurol 2023; 25:1-17. [PMID: 37360749 PMCID: PMC10256960 DOI: 10.1007/s11940-023-00756-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of eview The aim of this review is to discuss the presentation, diagnosis, and management of polyneuropathy (PN) in selected infections. Overall, most infection related PNs are an indirect consequence of immune activation rather than a direct result of peripheral nerve infection, Schwann cell infection, or toxin production, though note this review will describe infections that cause PN through all these mechanisms. Rather than dividing them by each infectious agent separately, we have grouped the infectious neuropathies according to their presenting phenotype, to serve as a guide to clinicians. Finally, toxic neuropathies related to antimicrobials are briefly summarized. Recent findings While PN from many infections is decreasing, increasing evidence links infections to variants of GBS. Incidence of neuropathies secondary to use of HIV therapy has decreased over the last few years. Summary In this manuscript, a general overview of the more common infectious causes of PN will be discussed, dividing them across clinical phenotypes: large- and small-fiber polyneuropathy, Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), mononeuritis multiplex, and autonomic neuropathy. Rare but important infectious causes are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrés M. De León
- Neuromuscular Division Department of Neurology, Emory University, Executive Park 12 NE, GA 30329 Atlanta, USA
| | - Rocio Garcia-Santibanez
- Neuromuscular Division Department of Neurology, Emory University, Executive Park 12 NE, GA 30329 Atlanta, USA
| | - Taylor B. Harrison
- Division of Neuromuscular Medicine, Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, 83 Jessie Junior Drive Box 039, Atlanta, GA 30303 USA
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Danni multipli dei nervi cranici. Neurologia 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/s1634-7072(21)46000-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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Umapathi T, Li KZ, Chin CF, Vijakumar K, Tan GSE, Ung PH, Yeo TK, Agrawal R. Acute Isolated Near Vision Difficulty in Patients With COVID-19 Infection. J Neuroophthalmol 2021; 41:e279-e282. [PMID: 34415279 PMCID: PMC8366533 DOI: 10.1097/wno.0000000000001120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Thirugnanam Umapathi
- Department of Neurology (TU), National Neuroscience Institute, Singapore; Department of Ophthalmology (KZL, CFC, TKY, RA), NHG Eye Institute, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore; Department of General Medicine (KV, PHU), Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore; National Centre for Infectious Diseases (GSET), Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore ; Singapore Eye Research Institute (RA), Singapore; and Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine (RA), Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
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LoRusso S. Infections of the Peripheral Nervous System. Continuum (Minneap Minn) 2021; 27:921-942. [PMID: 34623098 DOI: 10.1212/con.0000000000000981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This article describes infections that affect the peripheral nervous system, including their clinical features, differential diagnoses, and treatments. RECENT FINDINGS Rates of pyomyositis have increased recently in the United States, possibly because of an increase in risk factors such as IV drug use, obesity, and diabetes. Other peripheral nervous system infections, such as diphtheria, have become more common in older patients secondary to a lack of revaccination or waning immunity. Although recommended treatment regimens for most infections remain unchanged over recent years, debate over the ideal dosing and route of administration continues for some infections such as tetanus and leprosy (Hansen disease). SUMMARY Infections of the peripheral nervous system are varied in terms of the type of infection, localization, and potential treatment. Nerve conduction studies and EMG can help determine localization, which is key to determining an initial differential diagnosis. It is important to recognize infections quickly to minimize diagnostic delays that could lead to patient morbidity and mortality.
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Toxin-associated infectious diseases: tetanus, botulism and diphtheria. Curr Opin Neurol 2021; 34:432-438. [PMID: 33840775 DOI: 10.1097/wco.0000000000000933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The incidence rates of the toxin-related infectious diseases, tetanus, diphtheria and botulism declined dramatically over the past decades mainly because of the implementation of immunization programs also in low-and-middle-income countries (LAMICs) and by improving hygiene conditions. But still, single cases occur, and they need fastest possible recognition and management. RECENT FINDINGS Over the past 20 years, the incidence of neonatal tetanus has declined by more than 90%. This success was achieved by immunizing women in reproductive age in areas of high risk as sub-Saharan Africa and parts of Asia. Larger regional outbreaks of diphtheria have been reported from the former Soviet Union in the 1990s and from India in 2017. Botulism is still rare, mainly seen in infants and, in recent years, in intravenous drug abusers. SUMMARY Tetanus, diphtheria and botulism are rarities in high-income countries (HICs) with unlimited access to immunization programs and standard hygiene procedures. The diagnosis of all three diseases is still, even in the 21st century, based upon patient's history and clinical signs and symptoms. Neither biochemical bedside tests nor neuroradiological investigations help to confirm the diagnosis in an emergency situation.
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Koh JS, De Silva DA, Quek AML, Chiew HJ, Tu TM, Seet CYH, Hoe RHM, Saini M, Hui ACF, Angon J, Ker JR, Yong MH, Goh Y, Yu WY, Lim TCC, Tan BYQ, Ng KWP, Yeo LLL, Pang YZ, Prakash KM, Ahmad A, Thomas T, Lye DCB, Tan K, Umapathi T. Neurology of COVID-19 in Singapore. J Neurol Sci 2020; 418:117118. [PMID: 32977228 PMCID: PMC7470792 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2020.117118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 08/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To describe the spectrum of COVID-19 neurology in Singapore. METHOD We prospectively studied all microbiologically-confirmed COVID-19 patients in Singapore, who were referred for any neurological complaint within three months of COVID-19 onset. Neurological diagnoses and relationship to COVID-19 was made by consensus guided by contemporaneous literature, refined using recent case definitions. RESULTS 47,572 patients (median age 34 years, 98% males) were diagnosed with COVID-19 in Singapore between 19 March to 19 July 2020. We identified 90 patients (median age 38, 98.9% males) with neurological disorders; 39 with varying certainty of relationship to COVID-19 categorised as: i) Central nervous system syndromes-4 acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) and encephalitis, ii) Cerebrovascular disorders-19 acute ischaemic stroke and transient ischaemic attack (AIS/TIA), 4 cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT), 2 intracerebral haemorrhage, iii) Peripheral nervous system-7 mono/polyneuropathies, and a novel group, iv) Autonomic nervous system-4 limited dysautonomic syndromes. Fifty-one other patients had pre/co-existent neurological conditions unrelated to COVID-19. Encephalitis/ADEM is delayed, occurring in critical COVID-19, while CVT and dysautonomia occurred relatively early, and largely in mild infections. AIS/TIA was variable in onset, occurring in patients with differing COVID-19 severity; remarkably 63.2% were asymptomatic. CVT was more frequent than expected and occurred in mild/asymptomatic patients. There were no neurological complications in all 81 paediatric COVID-19 cases. CONCLUSION COVID-19 neurology has a wide spectrum of dysimmune-thrombotic disorders. We encountered relatively few neurological complications, probably because our outbreak involved largely young men with mild/asymptomatic COVID-19. It is also widely perceived that the pandemic did not unduly affect the Singapore healthcare system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmine Shimin Koh
- Department of Neurology, National Neuroscience Institute (Tan Tock Seng Hospital campus), Singapore
| | - Deidre Anne De Silva
- Department of Neurology, National Neuroscience Institute (Singapore General Hospital campus), Singapore
| | - Amy May Lin Quek
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, National University Health System, Singapore
| | - Hui Jin Chiew
- Department of Neurology, National Neuroscience Institute (Tan Tock Seng Hospital campus), Singapore
| | - Tian Ming Tu
- Department of Neurology, National Neuroscience Institute (Tan Tock Seng Hospital campus), Singapore; Division of Neurology, Department of General Medicine, Changi General Hospital, Singapore
| | | | - Rebecca Hui Min Hoe
- Department of Neurology, National Neuroscience Institute (Tan Tock Seng Hospital campus), Singapore
| | - Monica Saini
- Department of Neurology, National Neuroscience Institute (Tan Tock Seng Hospital campus), Singapore
| | - Andrew Che-Fai Hui
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Ng Teng Fong General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Jasmyn Angon
- Department of General Medicine, Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, Singapore
| | - Justin Ruixin Ker
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Neuroscience Institute, Singapore
| | - Ming Hui Yong
- Department of Neurology, National Neuroscience Institute (Singapore General Hospital campus), Singapore
| | - Yihui Goh
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, National University Health System, Singapore
| | - Wai-Yung Yu
- Department of Neuroradiology, National Neuroscience Institute, Singapore
| | | | | | - Kay Wei Ping Ng
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, National University Health System, Singapore
| | - Leonard Leong Litt Yeo
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, National University Health System, Singapore
| | - Yu Zhi Pang
- Department of Neurology, National Neuroscience Institute (Singapore General Hospital campus), Singapore; Division of Neurology, Department of General Medicine, Changi General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Kumar M Prakash
- Department of Neurology, National Neuroscience Institute (Singapore General Hospital campus), Singapore; Department of Neurology, Sengkang General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Aftab Ahmad
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Ng Teng Fong General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Terrence Thomas
- Department of Paediatrics, Neurology Service, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore
| | | | - Kevin Tan
- Department of Neurology, National Neuroscience Institute (Tan Tock Seng Hospital campus), Singapore
| | - Thirugnanam Umapathi
- Department of Neurology, National Neuroscience Institute (Tan Tock Seng Hospital campus), Singapore.
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Umapathi T, Poh MQW, Fan BE, Li KFC, George J, Tan JYL. Acute hyperhidrosis and postural tachycardia in a COVID-19 patient. Clin Auton Res 2020; 30:571-573. [PMID: 32970212 PMCID: PMC7511524 DOI: 10.1007/s10286-020-00733-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Bingwen Eugene Fan
- Department of Haematology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, Singapore.,Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Singapore, Singapore.,Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ki Fung Cliff Li
- Department of Cardiology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Julie George
- Department of General Medicine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jackie Y L Tan
- Department of General Medicine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
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Truelove SA, Keegan LT, Moss WJ, Chaisson LH, Macher E, Azman AS, Lessler J. Clinical and Epidemiological Aspects of Diphtheria: A Systematic Review and Pooled Analysis. Clin Infect Dis 2020; 71:89-97. [PMID: 31425581 PMCID: PMC7312233 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciz808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 08/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diphtheria, once a major cause of childhood morbidity and mortality, all but disappeared following introduction of diphtheria vaccine. Recent outbreaks highlight the risk diphtheria poses when civil unrest interrupts vaccination and healthcare access. Lack of interest over the last century resulted in knowledge gaps about diphtheria's epidemiology, transmission, and control. METHODS We conducted 9 distinct systematic reviews on PubMed and Scopus (March-May 2018). We pooled and analyzed extracted data to fill in these key knowledge gaps. RESULTS We identified 6934 articles, reviewed 781 full texts, and included 266. From this, we estimate that the median incubation period is 1.4 days. On average, untreated cases are colonized for 18.5 days (95% credible interval [CrI], 17.7-19.4 days), and 95% clear Corynebacterium diphtheriae within 48 days (95% CrI, 46-51 days). Asymptomatic carriers cause 76% (95% confidence interval, 59%-87%) fewer cases over the course of infection than symptomatic cases. The basic reproductive number is 1.7-4.3. Receipt of 3 doses of diphtheria toxoid vaccine is 87% (95% CrI, 68%-97%) effective against symptomatic disease and reduces transmission by 60% (95% CrI, 51%-68%). Vaccinated individuals can become colonized and transmit; consequently, vaccination alone can only interrupt transmission in 28% of outbreak settings, making isolation and antibiotics essential. While antibiotics reduce the duration of infection, they must be paired with diphtheria antitoxin to limit morbidity. CONCLUSIONS Appropriate tools to confront diphtheria exist; however, accurate understanding of the unique characteristics is crucial and lifesaving treatments must be made widely available. This comprehensive update provides clinical and public health guidance for diphtheria-specific preparedness and response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaun A Truelove
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Lindsay T Keegan
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - William J Moss
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- International Vaccine Access Center, Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Lelia H Chaisson
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Andrew S Azman
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Justin Lessler
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Mathis S, Duval F, Soulages A, Solé G, Le Masson G. The ataxic neuropathies. J Neurol 2020; 268:3675-3689. [DOI: 10.1007/s00415-020-09994-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Sharma NC, Efstratiou A, Mokrousov I, Mutreja A, Das B, Ramamurthy T. Diphtheria. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2019; 5:81. [PMID: 31804499 DOI: 10.1038/s41572-019-0131-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Diphtheria is a potentially fatal infection mostly caused by toxigenic Corynebacterium diphtheriae strains and occasionally by toxigenic C. ulcerans and C. pseudotuberculosis strains. Diphtheria is generally an acute respiratory infection, characterized by the formation of a pseudomembrane in the throat, but cutaneous infections are possible. Systemic effects, such as myocarditis and neuropathy, which are associated with increased fatality risk, are due to diphtheria toxin, an exotoxin produced by the pathogen that inhibits protein synthesis and causes cell death. Clinical diagnosis is confirmed by the isolation and identification of the causative Corynebacterium spp., usually by bacterial culture followed by enzymatic and toxin detection tests. Diphtheria can be treated with the timely administration of diphtheria antitoxin and antimicrobial therapy. Although effective vaccines are available, this disease has the potential to re-emerge in countries where the recommended vaccination programmes are not sustained, and increasing proportions of adults are becoming susceptible to diphtheria. Thousands of diphtheria cases are still reported annually from several countries in Asia and Africa, along with many outbreaks. Changes in the epidemiology of diphtheria have been reported worldwide. The prevalence of toxigenic Corynebacterium spp. highlights the need for proper clinical and epidemiological investigations to quickly identify and treat affected individuals, along with public health measures to prevent and contain the spread of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naresh Chand Sharma
- Laboratory Department, Maharishi Valmiki Infectious Diseases Hospital, Delhi, India
| | - Androulla Efstratiou
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Diphtheria and Streptococcal Infections, Reference Microbiology Division, Public Health England, London, UK
| | - Igor Mokrousov
- Laboratory of Molecular Epidemiology and Evolutionary Genetics, St. Petersburg Pasteur Institute, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Ankur Mutreja
- Global Health-Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Bhabatosh Das
- Infection and Immunology Division, Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, Faridabad, India
| | - Thandavarayan Ramamurthy
- Infection and Immunology Division, Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, Faridabad, India.
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Skogmar S, Tham J. Severe diphtheria with neurologic and myocardial involvement in a Swedish patient: a case report. BMC Infect Dis 2018; 18:359. [PMID: 30064365 PMCID: PMC6069954 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-018-3264-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2017] [Accepted: 07/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Diphtheria is caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae. Although waning in incidence diphtheria can cause severe disease as in this rare Swedish case with several complications. Case presentation A 55-year old male presented to the emergency room with severe respiratory symptoms and greyish membranes in the airways, which turned positive for C. diphtheriae. He was put on ventilator support and remained hospitalized for three months. During care he developed myocarditis and severe neurological disease and he was also co-infected with tuberculosis. The patient was discharged with a favorable outcome. Conclusions Diphtheria should be suspected in patients with life-threatening pneumonia especially if the patient has a history of travelling. Our patient was not treated with diphtheria anti-toxin (DAT) which may have contributed to the severity of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sten Skogmar
- Department of Translational Medicine, Clinical Infection Medicine, Lund University, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Johan Tham
- Department of Translational Medicine, Clinical Infection Medicine, Lund University, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden. .,Infectious Diseases Unit, Skånes University hospital, 205 02, Malmö, Sweden.
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Abstract
Aim To study the spectrum of neurological complications of diphtheria, timing of onset with respect to respiratory disease, and pattern of recovery. Settings and Design Prospective, observational, hospital-based study conducted in tertiary care hospital. Materials and Methods Twenty-eight cases of diphtheria with neurological complications were admitted during the period of study. Demographic profile, age, gender, status of immunization, past history stressing on the severity of the respiratory disease, and complaints regarding diverse complications of diphtheria were recorded. Detailed clinical and central nervous system examinations along with relevant investigations were carried out. Results Children were in the age group of 3-18 years. All 28 children presented with bulbar symptoms. Isolated palatal palsy was present in 18 children (64%). Third cranial involvement was present in four children. Three children had unilateral lower motor neuron facial palsy and one child had sixth cranial nerve palsy. Nine children developed symmetric limb weakness. Diaphragmatic palsy was present in three children with the onset from 1-3 weeks after pharyngeal diphtheria. Loss of vasomotor tone was present in two children. Recovery was complete in all 28 children. Conclusion Pediatricians/neurophysicians should have a high index of suspicion to recognize diphtheritic polyneuropathy. It carries good prognosis, hence timely diagnosis and differentiation from other neuropathies is a prerequisite for rational management and contact tracing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prem L Prasad
- Department of Paediatrics, Shri Ram Murti Smarak Institute of Medical Sciences, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Preeti L Rai
- Department of Paediatrics, Shri Ram Murti Smarak Institute of Medical Sciences, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Carod-Artal FJ. Infectious diseases causing autonomic dysfunction. Clin Auton Res 2017; 28:67-81. [PMID: 28730326 DOI: 10.1007/s10286-017-0452-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2017] [Accepted: 07/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To review infectious diseases that may cause autonomic dysfunction. METHODS Review of published papers indexed in medline/embase. RESULTS Autonomic dysfunction has been reported in retrovirus (human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), human T-lymphotropic virus), herpes viruses, flavivirus, enterovirus 71 and lyssavirus infections. Autonomic dysfunction is relatively common in HIV-infected patients and heart rate variability is reduced even in early stages of infection. Orthostatic hypotension, urinary dysfunction and hypohidrosis have been described in tropical spastic paraparesis patients. Varicella zoster reactivation from autonomic ganglia may be involved in visceral disease and chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction. Autonomic and peripheral nervous system dysfunction may happen in acute tick-borne encephalitis virus infections. Hydrophobia, hypersalivation, dyspnea, photophobia, and piloerection are frequently observed in human rabies. Autonomic dysfunction and vagal denervation is common in Chagas disease. Neuronal depopulation occurs mainly in chagasic heart disease and myenteric plexus, and megacolon, megaesophagus and cardiomyopathy are common complications in the chronic stage of Chagas disease. Parasympathetic autonomic dysfunction precedes left ventricle systolic dysfunction in Chagas disease. A high prevalence of subclinical autonomic neuropathy in leprosy patients has been reported, and autonomic nerve dysfunction may be an early manifestation of the disease. Autonomic dysfunction features in leprosy include anhidrosis, impaired sweating function, localised alopecia ,and reduced heart rate variability. Urinary retention and intestinal pseudo-obstruction have been described in Lyme disease. Diphtheritic polyneuropathy, tetanus and botulism are examples of bacterial infections releasing toxins that affect the autonomic nervous system. CONCLUSIONS Autonomic dysfunction may be responsible for additional morbidity in some infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Javier Carod-Artal
- Neurology Department, Raigmore Hospital, Inverness, UK. .,Health Sciences Faculty, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya (UIC), Barcelona, Spain.
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Nayak R. Practical approach to the patient with acute neuromuscular weakness. World J Clin Cases 2017; 5:270-279. [PMID: 28798922 PMCID: PMC5535318 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v5.i7.270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2017] [Revised: 04/12/2017] [Accepted: 05/15/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute neuromuscular paralysis (ANMP) is a clinical syndrome characterized by rapid onset muscle weakness progressing to maximum severity within several days to weeks (less than 4 wk). Bulbar and respiratory muscle weakness may or may not be present. It is a common neurological emergency which requires immediate and careful investigations to determine the etiology because accurate diagnosis has significant impact on therapy and prognosis. Respiratory failure caused by neuromuscular weakness is considered as more critical than lung disease because its development may be insidious or subtle until sudden decompensation leads to life threatening hypoxia. Also, the arterial blood gas finding of severe hypoxemia, hypercapnia, and acidosis may not be apparent until respiratory failure is profound. Hence, the requirement for respiratory assistance should also be intensively and promptly investigated in all patients with neuromuscular disease. The disorder is classified based on the site of defect in motor unit pathway, i.e., anterior horn cells, nerve root, peripheral nerve, neuromuscular junction or muscle. Identification of the cause is primarily based on a good medical history and detailed clinical examination supplemented with neurophysiologic investigations and sometimes few specific laboratory tests. Medical history and neurological examination should be focused on the onset, progression, pattern and severity of muscle weakness as well as cranial nerves testing and tests for autonomic dysfunction. Associated non neurological features like fever, rash or other skin lesions etc. should also be noted. Globally, Guillain-Barré syndrome is the most frequent cause of ANMP and accounts for the majority of cases of respiratory muscles weakness associated with neuromuscular disorders. Newly acquired neuromuscular weakness in intensive care unit patients consist of critical illness polyneuropathy, critical illness myopathy and drug induced neuromuscular weakness which may arise as a consequence of sepsis, multi-organ failure, and exposure to certain medications like intravenous corticosteroids and neuromuscular blocking agents.
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Haywood MJ, Vijendren A, Acharya V, Mulla R, Panesar MJ. Multidisciplinary approach to the management of a case of classical respiratory diphtheria requiring percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy feeding. BMJ Case Rep 2017; 2017:bcr-2016-218408. [PMID: 28264806 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2016-218408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
We present a case of a Caucasian woman aged 67 years referred with a 4-day history of sore throat, dysphagia, fever and nasal blockage. Examination revealed a swollen neck and pharyngeal pseudomembrane. A throat swab was positive on culture for Corynebacterium ulcerans, with toxin expression confirmed on PCR and Elek testing. A diagnosis of classical respiratory diphtheria was made, with subsequent confirmation of the patient's domesticated dog as the source of infection. The dog had recently been attacked by a wild badger and was being treated for an ear infection. The patient made a good recovery with intravenous antimicrobial and supportive therapy; however, she subsequently developed a diphtheritic polyneuropathy in the form of a severe bulbar palsy with frank aspiration necessitating percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy feeding. A mild sensorimotor peripheral neuropathy was also diagnosed. The patient eventually made an almost complete recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ananth Vijendren
- Department of ENT, Luton and Dunstable University Hospital, Luton, UK
| | - Vikas Acharya
- Department of ENT, Luton and Dunstable University Hospital, Luton, UK
| | - Rohinton Mulla
- Department of Microbiology, Luton and Dunstable University Hospital, Luton, UK
| | - Miss Jaan Panesar
- Department of ENT, Luton and Dunstable University Hospital, Luton, UK
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Manikyamba D, Satyavani A, Deepa P. Diphtheritic polyneuropathy in the wake of resurgence of diphtheria. J Pediatr Neurosci 2016; 10:331-4. [PMID: 26962337 PMCID: PMC4770643 DOI: 10.4103/1817-1745.174441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the clinical profile and outcome in children with diphtheritic polyneuropathy (DP). METHODOLOGY 13 children with polyneuropathy were included in this study. Their demographic profile, age, sex and immunization status were recorded. Detailed clinical and neurological examination was done. Investigations like CSF analysis, NCV studies, MRI brain were done. The results were tabulated and analyzed. RESULTS All the children presented with bulbar palsy and had h/o membranous tonsillitis. Isolated palatal palsy was seen in 7 children (53%). 6 (46.1%) children developed quadriparesis. 1 child expired and recovery is complete in rest of the 12 children. Children with isolated bulbar palsy recovered within 2 to 4 weeks while children with quadriparesis recovered within 5-6 wks. CONCLUSIONS Any child diagnosed with diphtheria should be followed for 3-6 months in anticipation of neurological complications. DP carries good prognosis hence timely diagnosis and differentiation from other neuropathies is a prerequisite for rational management.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Manikyamba
- Department of Pediatrics, Rangaraya Medical College, Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - A Satyavani
- Department of Pediatrics, Rangaraya Medical College, Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - P Deepa
- Department of Pediatrics, Rangaraya Medical College, Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, India
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Infections are important, potentially treatable causes of peripheral nervous system disease. This article reviews the clinical presentation and management of several common peripheral nervous system diseases due to viral, bacterial, spirochetal, and parasitic infections. RECENT FINDINGS The clinical presentation and evaluation of infectious peripheral nervous system diseases are well established. Advances in the treatment and, in some cases, the prevention of these diseases are still evolving. SUMMARY A diverse range of peripheral nervous system diseases, including peripheral neuropathy, radiculopathy, radiculomyelopathy, cranial neuropathy, and motor neuropathy, are caused by numerous infectious agents. In some patients, peripheral neuropathy may be a side effect of anti-infectious drugs. Infectious neuropathies are important to recognize as they are potentially treatable. This article discusses the clinical presentation, evaluation, and treatment of several common peripheral nervous system diseases caused by viral, bacterial, spirochetal, and parasitic infections, as well as some peripheral nerve disorders caused by adverse effects of the treatments of these infectious diseases.
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Clinical profile and predictors of poor outcome of hospitalized diphtheria cases in children from Lucknow region of North India. CLINICAL EPIDEMIOLOGY AND GLOBAL HEALTH 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cegh.2012.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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Abstract
Historically, diphtheria was a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the prevaccine era. However, in recent times there has been a resurgence of diphtheria, especially in the newly independent states of the former USSR. Diphtheritic polyneuropathy can be a serious complication in patients who have a severe infection. In patients with pertussis, seizures and encephalopathy can occur as a complication of asphyxia. Vaccination against diphtheria and pertussis in children and booster vaccination in adults is recommended. DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis) vaccination has been shown to increase the risk of febrile seizures in children. Currently, it appears that the risk of vaccine-induced encephalopathy and/or epilepsy following DTP vaccination, if any, is extremely low.
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Mateen FJ, Bahl S, Khera A, Sutter RW. Detection of diphtheritic polyneuropathy by acute flaccid paralysis surveillance, India. Emerg Infect Dis 2014; 19:1368-73. [PMID: 23965520 PMCID: PMC3810918 DOI: 10.3201/eid1909.130117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Diphtheritic polyneuropathy is a vaccine-preventable illness caused by exotoxin-producing strains of Corynebacterium diphtheriae. We present a retrospective convenience case series of 15 children (6 girls) <15 years of age (mean age 5.2 years, case-fatality rate 53%, and 1 additional case-patient who was ventilator dependent at the time of last follow-up; median follow-up period 60 days) with signs and symptoms suggestive of diphtheritic polyneuropathy. All cases were identified through national acute flaccid paralysis surveillance, which was designed to detect poliomyelitis in India during 2002–2008. We also report data on detection of diphtheritic polyneuropathy compared with other causes of acute flaccid paralysis identified by this surveillance system.
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Sejvar J. Vaccines and viral / toxin-associated neurologic infections. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2014; 123:719-44. [PMID: 25015514 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-53488-0.00038-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- James Sejvar
- Division of Viral and Rickettsial Diseases, Division of Vector-Borne Infectious Diseases, National Center for Zoonotic, Vectorborne, and Enteric Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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Wilmshurst JM. Diagnosis and management of pediatric peripheral neuropathies in resource-poor settings. FUTURE NEUROLOGY 2013. [DOI: 10.2217/fnl.12.97] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The diagnosis of a peripheral neuropathy in a child who resides in the majority of resource-poor settings is based on the history taken and the clinical examination. The majority of children, unless they demonstrate additional clinical markers, will lack a more definitive diagnosis beyond the label ‘peripheral neuropathy’. The treatable, typically acquired conditions, which are prevalent in these settings, are the priority to identify. This would include neuroinfections, neuroinflammation, toxins and vitamin deficiencies. The management of children with peripheral neuropathies in resource-poor settings must be approached in a different manner to that of more ‘resource-equipped’ settings. Secondary or tertiary centers are scarce, often significant distances away from the patient, and this leads to long delays before access is possible. Most children present to primary healthcare settings and are seen by practitioners with little training in the features suggestive of a peripheral neuropathy. As such, basic aids to assist the healthcare worker in the early recognition and interventions of a child with a peripheral neuropathy are important. In addition, there must be recognition of the child with a rapidly progressive neuropathy where a life-threatening condition is present, and urgent referral to a tertiary setting made wherever possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jo M Wilmshurst
- Pediatric Neurology Department, Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital, University of Cape Town, 7700, Cape Town, South Africa
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Kanwal SK, Yadav D, Chhapola V, Kumar V. Post-diphtheritic neuropathy: a clinical study in paediatric intensive care unit of a developing country. Trop Doct 2012; 42:195-7. [DOI: 10.1258/td.2012.120293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Summary A retrospective study was done on 48 consecutive patients with clinical diagnosis of postdiphtheritic neuropathy admitted to the paediatric intensive care unit of tertiary care hospital in North India between January 2008 and December 2010 to study the clinical profile of post-diphtheritic neuropathy in children. The case records were reviewed and information regarding personal details, clinical features, recovery parameters and outcome was recorded using a predesigned proforma. Median age was 4.25 years. All cases were unimmunized. Median latency period was 15 days. Of the children, 52% had palatal palsy whereas 48% had limb weakness initially. Median duration of progression of weakness was five days. Limb muscle weakness was present in 94%. Respiratory muscles were involved in 85.4% cases and 60.4% required mechanical ventilation, while 14.6% had fatal outcome and 10.4% had hypoxic neurological injury. Boys were affected more. Median duration of latency was shorter; muscle weakness, progression and recovery were faster as compared with observational studies in adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandeep Kumar Kanwal
- Department of Paediatrics, Lady Hardinge Medical College and associated Kalawati Saran Children's Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Dinesh Yadav
- Department of Paediatrics, Lady Hardinge Medical College and associated Kalawati Saran Children's Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Viswas Chhapola
- Department of Paediatrics, Lady Hardinge Medical College and associated Kalawati Saran Children's Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Virendra Kumar
- Department of Paediatrics, Lady Hardinge Medical College and associated Kalawati Saran Children's Hospital, New Delhi, India
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[Autonomic peripheral neuropathy]. Presse Med 2012; 41:1128-36. [PMID: 23021660 DOI: 10.1016/j.lpm.2012.05.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2012] [Revised: 05/24/2012] [Accepted: 05/30/2012] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanisms of dysautonomic disturbances are varied and mostly acquired. They can result from lesions of sympathetic or parasympathetic vegetative fibers located in the peripheral contingent, or in the somatic contingent by demyelination or axonal loss; or more rarely by cellular bodies in the sympathetic or parasympathetic ganglia. Several chronic peripheral neuropathies can be associated with dysautonomia. Only some causes need to be known because they can be clinically significant. Dysautonomia may be seen during chronic acquired neuropathies but also acute or subacute ones. The most frequent cause in the world is the dysautonomia of the diabetes; it affects all the systems; the cardiovascular dysfunction has an impact on the prognosis for survival when it is severe. Hereditary autonomic neuropathies are rare; they can declare themselves very early during the Riley-Day syndrome or very late during amyloid polyneuropathies due to transthyretin gene mutation. The diagnosis can be confirmed by molecular biology. The dysautonomia is frequent and often severe. These neuropathies justify symptomatic treatment to improve quality of life. For some of them, a specific treatment can be proposed to treat the causal affection to try to stop the progression of the disease.
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Rezania K, Goldenberg FD, White S. Neuromuscular Disorders and Acute Respiratory Failure: Diagnosis and Management. Neurol Clin 2012; 30:161-85, viii. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ncl.2011.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Stommel E. TERRESTRIAL BIOTOXINS. Continuum (Minneap Minn) 2008. [DOI: 10.1212/01.con.0000337994.00915.66] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Vitek CR, Wharton M. Diphtheria toxoid. Vaccines (Basel) 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-1-4160-3611-1.50014-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2023] Open
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Abstract
Most generalized peripheral polyneuropathies are accompanied by clinical or subclinical autonomic dysfunction. There is a group of peripheral neuropathies in which the small or unmyelinated fibers are selectively targeted. In these neuropathies, autonomic dysfunction is the most prominent manifestation. The features associated with an autonomic neuropathy include impairment of cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, urogenital, thermoregulatory, sudomotor, and pupillomotor autonomic function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roy Freeman
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Center for Autonomic and Peripheral Nerve Disorders, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, One Deaconess Road, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
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Neuropathies Associated with Infections. Neurobiol Dis 2007. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-012088592-3/50085-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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Abstract
The autonomic neuropathies are a group of disorders in which the small, lightly myelinated and unmyelinated autonomic nerve fibres are selectively targeted. Autonomic features, which involve the cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, urogenital, sudomotor, and pupillomotor systems, occur in varying combination in these disorders. Diabetes is the most common cause of autonomic neuropathy in more developed countries. Autonomic neuropathies can also occur as a result of amyloid deposition, after acute infection, as part of a paraneoplastic syndrome, and after exposure to neurotoxins including therapeutic drugs. Certain antibodies (eg, anti-Hu and those directed against neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor) are associated with autonomic signs and symptoms. There are several familial autonomic neuropathies with autosomal dominant, autosomal recessive, or X-linked patterns of inheritance. Autonomic dysfunction can occur in association with specific infections. The availability of sensitive and reproducible measures of autonomic function has improved physicians' ability to diagnose these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roy Freeman
- Center for Autonomic and Peripheral Nerve Disorders, Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
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